AFC north.(NFL)(American Football ConferePittsburgh Steelersnce, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, )

BALTIMORE RAVENS

Pro Bowl TE Todd Heap (ankle) returned last week after missing the previous nine games. Heap gives the club a needed deep threat and presence in the middle of the field. He also will be QB Kyle Boiler's go-to guy on third downs.... Even after RB Jamal Lewis (ankle) returns-the team has targeted for December 19 at Indianapolis--Chester Taylor will continue to have a key role. Despite his size (5-11,213), Taylor runs with power and seldom loses yards.... Look for the Ravens to try to add a big defensive lineman in the offseason. They need a stud who can draw double-teams and take pressure off the inside linebackers, who have to do too much. THIRD QUARTER GRADES: Offense: C, The Ravens need to reestablish their identity as a running team. Defense: B+, Still one of the league's best, but it's small up front and has too many big egos in the secondary. Special teams; C. They started out strong but are slowing down; an energy infusion is needed. Coaching: B-. The staff has been able to keep the team together after a rash of injuries on offense.--Mike Preston

CINCINNATI BENGALS

RT Langston Moore (6-1,300) is the unsung hero of the defensive line. His low center of gravity and upper-body strength allow him to get good leverage. He doesn't generate many sacks because of his size, but he's able to hold his ground, clog the middle, help push the pile and create havoc at the point of attack.... LB Brian Simmons (6-3,248) is a solid, all-around athlete with good size, speed and instincts. He's at his best against the run because he's strong and fast, sheds blockers welt and has great range. His biggest area of improvement is against the pass. Exploited earlier this year in one-on-one coverage, he's reading and reacting quicker and getting in better position to cover backs and tight ends in the red zone. THIRD QUARTER GRADES: Offense: B. The wide receivers and RB Rudi Johnson are in a groove with QB Carson Palmer, whose confidence is growing. Defense: C-. Poor tackling continues to haunt this unit. Special teams: B. The kicking game is strong, and the coverage units are solid. Coaching: B+, Motivator Marvin Lewis has the club at .500 after a 1-4 start.--Chick ...